On Sunday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to attend the Arab-Islamic Summit. He was received at Riyadh’s Royal Airport Terminal by Prince Muhammad bin Abdul Rahman bin Abdulaziz, Deputy Governor of Riyadh, alongside Pakistan’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia and senior diplomatic officials. The visit marks Pakistan’s ongoing commitment to addressing the escalating issues in the Middle East, particularly the Palestinian cause.
Key Officials Accompanying PM Shehbaz
The Prime Minister was accompanied by Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Attaullah Tarar, and Special Assistant to the Prime Minister, Tariq Fatemi, both of whom are integral to the discussions and meetings scheduled during the summit.
Focus on Palestinian Rights and Regional Peace
Upon arrival, PM Shehbaz shared a message on X (formerly Twitter), emphasizing the importance of a unified approach by Muslim leaders to address the situation in Gaza. He stressed the need to “speak with one voice for the rights of the Palestinian people” and reaffirmed Pakistan’s longstanding support for regional peace and stability.
Call for Ceasefire and Humanitarian Relief
At the summit, PM Shehbaz is expected to call for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza, highlighting the urgent need to stop the violence, which has drawn widespread international condemnation. Pakistan’s government has consistently demanded an end to the ongoing humanitarian crisis and violence, underscoring its firm stance on Palestinian rights.
Meetings with Leaders from OIC and Arab League
PM Shehbaz’s participation in the Arab-Islamic Summit provides an important platform to engage with leaders from the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the Arab League. These discussions will focus on finding a collective solution to the challenges in Gaza and other pressing regional concerns. The summit is critical in fostering dialogue and cooperation among Muslim-majority nations on issues impacting the Middle East.
Strengthening Pakistan-Saudi Arabia Relations
During his visit, PM Shehbaz also intends to strengthen Pakistan’s bilateral relations with Saudi Arabia. He expressed his commitment to deepening economic cooperation, particularly in the areas of solar energy, mining, agriculture, and investment. These discussions are part of ongoing efforts to enhance ties between the two countries, with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reaffirming his support for Pakistan’s economic development.
Focus on Military and Defense Cooperation
In addition to economic discussions, PM Shehbaz’s visit follows recent engagements between Pakistan’s military leadership and Saudi officials. Pakistan’s Army Chief General Asim Munir has also met with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to discuss defense cooperation and regional security. These talks aim to bolster military ties and address security concerns within the region, particularly in light of ongoing geopolitical tensions.
Reaffirming Commitment to the Palestinian Cause
PM Shehbaz’s participation in the Arab-Islamic Summit further reinforces Pakistan’s unwavering support for Palestine. This has been a cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign policy, particularly in the Middle East, where the country continues to advocate for the rights of the Palestinian people and the establishment of a lasting peace in the region.
Conclusion
PM Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Riyadh underscores Pakistan’s commitment to supporting Palestine, strengthening relations with Saudi Arabia, and addressing regional security issues. His attendance at the Arab-Islamic Summit highlights the critical role of dialogue in resolving conflicts and promoting peace in the Middle East.